Extra Income Over Rest...
Changing Holiday Traditions
During the long Chuseok holiday, more people are seeking to earn extra income rather than simply rest, leading to a surge in unique part-time job postings. The types of job listings have also become more diverse than before, ranging from pet care and house cleaning to short-term tutoring.
"Looking for Someone to Watch My Dog"... Pet Sitter Job Posts Gain Popularity
A dog is resting under the Hangang Bridge in Seoul. Photo by Asia Economy DB
On October 4, local lifestyle platforms such as Danggeun have seen a series of posts related to short-term part-time jobs for the Chuseok holiday. One of the most common examples is the 'pet sitter.' The term 'pet sitter' is a compound word formed from 'pet,' meaning companion animal, and 'sitter,' referring to a person who takes care of something. A pet sitter is responsible for looking after pets on behalf of their owners.
One dog owner who posted a pet sitter job ad shared, "For the first time since getting married, my family is going on a trip. Since my dog is old, I can't take him with us, so I am looking for a pet sitter. All you need to do is give him his medicine, water, and food in the morning and evening, and change the pee pad. I am looking for someone available from October 5 to 7, during the Chuseok holiday."
For those leaving their homes to visit family or travel, pets that are difficult to bring along can be a source of concern. While pet hotels are an option, the high cost-tens of thousands of won per night-and fierce competition for reservations have led more people to prefer pet sitters, who offer more affordable and personalized care.
"Looking for Someone to Help Clean the House"... Other Unique Job Listings
With the Chuseok holiday approaching, posts related to short-term part-time jobs are appearing one after another. The local lifestyle platform 'Danggeun'
There have also been posts seeking people to care for small animals such as hamsters and rabbits. One user looking for someone to take care of a hamster said, "Around Chuseok, my work schedule overlaps with a long trip, so I am looking for a temporary guardian or pet sitter. I wanted to ask a friend, but the circumstances are not right. If you have a spare cage or are available, please contact me. I will compensate you."
Job postings for house cleaning help during the holiday have also appeared. A resident of Sinjeong-dong, Seoul, wrote, "I am looking for someone to help clean my house on October 7 and 8, during the Chuseok holiday. It is a house with more than three rooms, and all cleaning supplies are provided. There is nothing in particular to pay special attention to, so you can help comfortably." The hourly wage was set at 35,000 won per job.
There is also strong demand for short-term tutoring for children during the holiday. One parent said, "I want to use the Chuseok holiday to help my high school freshman organize concepts and solve problems in modern and contemporary history," offering an hourly wage of 20,000 won.
During the Holiday, 'Extra Income' is Preferred Over 'Rest'
In the past, holidays were considered a time to relax and reconnect with family and relatives. However, recently, as the perception that holidays must be spent with family has weakened and the variety of part-time jobs has increased, more people are seeking to use the holiday as an opportunity to earn income rather than rest.
According to a survey conducted by the job-matching platform AlbaCheonguk of 1,338 part-time workers during last year's Chuseok, the most common reason for choosing short-term work was "to earn pocket money in a short period" (53.9%). This was followed by ▲having no special plans during the holiday (25.6%), ▲the need for additional income due to high living costs (22.2%), and ▲saving up for travel expenses or tuition fees (18.2%).
Meanwhile, even for short-term holiday part-time jobs, a written employment contract must be prepared. The contract should specify working hours, wages, workplace, and job description. If only a verbal agreement is made, workers may be at a disadvantage if problems arise later, so caution is advised.
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